Amy Dowden wished her father, the ‘biggest’ Strictly Come Dancing fan, a happy birthday while lamenting that they couldn’t celebrate as planned.
The professional dancer has lately shared treatment updates with her fans after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
The 32-year-old originally revealed her stage three diagnosis in May of this year, before admitting a few months later that more tumours had been discovered during an MRI.
The actress has had a mastectomy and has started chemotherapy as she prepares to produce a ‘raw’ and’sensitive’ BBC documentary on her experience.
Amy paid tribute to her father Richard Dowden on his birthday in a recent Instagram Story post, writing: ‘Happy birthday to the most incredible dad @richard_dowden.’
The dancer posted a series of photos of the couple together, including one at a formal occasion, as well as a selfie of Richard beaming in front of the studio where Strictly is recorded.
‘Everyone loves Dickie Dowd and all the fun, jokes but importantly loving family guy you are!’ Amy said.
‘Mine and @bbcstrictly biggest fan!’
The British Open Latin Dance Champion added: ‘I’m sorry it’s not the birthday planned. Better times ahead and we will have even more to celebrate. Smile and look forward whilst you get up to your antics 🤣.
‘Thanks for everything especially these past few weeks and days 💖. Love you @richard_dowden.’
Amy recognised her father on Father’s Day this year, praising him as the “kindest, funniest, most modest human.”
‘Happy Father’s Day to everyone who is lucky enough to know him, is the kindest, funniest most humble human! Known as legend Dickie Dowd who I’m lucky enough to call my dad!’ she wrote in her caption at the time.
‘THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING ESPECIALLY THE LAST FEW WEEKS! Strictly lots of love your Amy xxxx 💖💖💖 #happyfathersday.’
How should you check your breasts for lumps or irregularities?
Discussing the importance of being breast aware, Addie Mitchell, clinical nurse specialist at Breast Cancer Now, wants women to know there is no right or wrong way to check your breasts.
‘It’s about looking and feeling regularly so any changes can be spotted quickly,’ she said. ‘The sooner breast cancer is diagnosed, the more effective treatment may be.
‘Whatever your age, being aware of all the signs and symptoms of breast cancer is crucial – it’s not just a lump to look out for. Other changes could be a nipple becoming inverted or a change in texture of the skin.
‘While most symptoms won’t mean breast cancer, if you notice anything unusual for you get it checked out by your GP.
‘Anyone with questions can call Breast Cancer Now’s nurses free on 0808 800 6000 or visit breastcancernow.org.uk.’
Amy provided an update with her Instagram followers a few days ago after her first session of chemo, stating she ‘looked worse going in than coming out’ since she hadn’t slept and burst into tears when she arrived for the appointment.
‘Red Devil went in, had another cry but I’ve left knowing chemo 1 done and not as bad as I thought. This is due to the incredible team and nurses! Thank you NHS!’ she shared.
‘Hopefully not too many side effects. One step closer to being back on the dance floor. (that’s what’s hurting the most right now, I’d do anything to be there with my fellow strictly pros right now). But for now chemo 1.’
Macmillan cancer support
If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with cancer, Macmillan can offer support and information.
You can contact their helpline on 0808 808 00 00 (7 days a week from 8am to 8pm), use their webchat service, or visit their site for more information.
